noun

die Spur, -en

trail · trace · track

Ein Zeichen oder Abdruck, den ein Mensch, Tier oder Fahrzeug auf dem Boden hinterlässt.

Spur is a German noun meaning track, trace, or trail.

  • It denotes a mark or sign left behind by someone or something (e.g., footprints, tire tracks).
  • It can also mean a hint or clue in a figurative sense.

Words it is related to or similar with:

  • Fährte (trail, usually of animals)
  • Hinweis (hint, clue)
  • Zeichen (sign, symbol)

Difference:

  • Spur often refers specifically to physical or metaphorical "traces" left behind.
  • Fährte emphasizes a scent or path followed, often used with animals.
  • Hinweis and Zeichen are broader clues or signs, not necessarily physical traces.

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Examples

Der Detektiv verfolgt die Spur des Täters.noun

The detective is following the trail of the culprit.

Auf dem Weg war keine Spur zu sehen.noun

On the path, no trace was to be seen.

Hinter dem Haus findet man eine Spur im Schnee.noun

Behind the house, one finds a track in the snow.

Die Spur führt in den Wald.noun

The trail leads into the forest.

Die Spur führt direkt zum alten Haus.noun

The trail leads directly to the old house.

Die Spur auf dem Boden sieht frisch aus.noun

The track on the ground looks fresh.

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